By Tracy McCormick-Dishman
editor@floridanewsline.com
What started as one neighbor’s simple idea has blossomed into a community project that’s weathered both storms and neighborhood debates.
In 2021, Anjie Palmer proposed adding native plants to her Lake Mandarin Garden HOA’s Ricky Road park. Then-President Don Lindstrom embraced the vision, and together they worked with landscape designer Lori Gilmore on a three-phase plan. The board approved the project with a $1,000 budget and a protective fence.
On April 1, 2022, Phase 1 came to life. Clean Cuts Lawn Care, neighbors and Walter Bryant of the Florida Native Plant Society volunteered to install approximately 1,000 square feet of native plantings.
But the approved fence didn’t arrive for two years. The unprotected garden became a casualty of pedestrians, bicycles and motorcycles, destroying native grasses, shrubs, blueberries and saw palmettos.
“We had to get creative,” Palmer said. Volunteers allowed Bidens alba — Spanish needles — to fill traffic areas, discouraging foot traffic while they added pollinator plants and flowers to protected sections.
When the fence finally arrived in 2024, it brought relief and controversy. Some neighbors wanted the project removed. Others pushed for Phase 2.
President Jim Jourdan asked Director Owen Derrick to form a committee. Despite “spirited discussions,” they’re moving forward. The group met with landscape designers and provided detailed information including plant locations, seasonal colors and pollinator benefits.
The HOA is also discussing replacing the playground and gazebo that fell into disrepair. One committee member, a children’s recreational therapist, suggested adding inclusive equipment.
“Since the installation, we have weeded, planted and watered,” Palmer said. “It’s so rewarding when neighbors comment on the beautiful butterflies attracted to the native plants.”
The garden operates without pesticides or fertilizers, requiring water only for new installations.
“It’s fun to work on projects with neighbors improving the neighborhood,” Palmer said.
The committee continues working toward Phase 2, balancing community input with the original vision of creating sustainable, native landscaping.
